Whether you're a homeowner, a private landlord, or a business owner, the term "EICR certificate" comes up surprisingly often. If you're not sure what it means, what's involved, or whether you actually need one — this guide covers everything clearly and without the jargon.
EICR stands for Electrical Installation Condition Report. It's a formal document produced by a qualified electrician after carrying out a thorough inspection and testing of the electrical installation within a property — everything from the consumer unit and wiring to sockets, switches, and light fittings.
An EICR is sometimes referred to as a "periodic inspection", a "fixed wire test", or an "electrical safety report." They all mean the same thing.
Electrical installations don't last forever. Over time, wiring can deteriorate, connections can become loose, and components can wear out — often with no visible warning signs. An EICR is how you find out about these hidden problems before they become dangerous or expensive.
According to Electrical Safety First, faulty electrical installations are one of the leading causes of house fires in the UK. An EICR gives you — and any occupants or tenants — confidence that the installation has been properly inspected and is safe.
If you rent out a residential property in England, an EICR is a legal requirement under the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020. Landlords must have the installation inspected before a new tenancy, carry out any remedial work, provide a copy to the tenant within 28 days, and repeat the inspection at least every 5 years.
Full details are available at GOV.UK — Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector. Landlords who fail to comply can face fines of up to £30,000.
While homeowners are not legally required to hold an EICR, it is strongly recommended when buying a property. Many mortgage lenders and solicitors now request evidence of a recent EICR as part of the conveyancing process.
Under the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989, employers are responsible for ensuring their electrical systems are maintained safely. A 5-year inspection cycle is standard practice for most commercial premises.
| Property Type | Recommended Frequency |
|---|---|
| Rented residential (private landlord) | At least every 5 years or change of tenancy |
| Owner-occupied home | Every 10 years (or when buying/selling) |
| Commercial premises | Every 5 years |
| Industrial premises | Every 3 years |
| Swimming pools / special locations | Every 1 year |
The inspection is carried out by a qualified and registered electrician and typically takes 2–4 hours for a standard domestic property. The electrician will assess: the consumer unit, wiring condition, earthing and bonding, fixed electrical equipment, sockets, switches, light fittings, and safety device operation.
During the inspection, circuits will be turned off temporarily for testing. It's worth avoiding a full fridge or freezer defrost mid-inspection, and ensuring someone is available on site throughout.
The overall result will be either Satisfactory or Unsatisfactory. A C1 or C2 finding will result in an unsatisfactory report — remedial work must be completed before the installation is deemed safe.
We carry out EICR inspections for homeowners, landlords and businesses across Port Talbot, Neath, Swansea and surrounding areas. Fast turnaround, clear reporting, competitive prices.
Book an EICR📞 07446 285782| Property Type | Typical EICR Cost |
|---|---|
| 1–2 bedroom flat / house | £150 – £220 |
| 3–4 bedroom house | £200 – £280 |
| 5+ bedroom house | £280 – £400+ |
| Small commercial premises | £250 – £500+ |
Always check your electrician is registered with NICEIC or NAPIT. Be wary of unusually low prices — a thorough inspection can't be rushed.
📞 Call 07446 285782 or submit an enquiry online and we'll get back to you the same working day.